There are two big changes in the starting lineup for Manu Samoa against Tonga including Census Johnston playing in the number three jersey on Saturday.
Paul Perez will be starting the game at centre as Malu Falaniko replaces Albert Nikoro at fullback and Pelefofoga Cowley coming in for Dwayne Polataivao at scrum half.
"Obviously we have been waiting for these guys for a while and I'm glad Paul is here as well as Census. They bring an extra boost to both the backs and our forwards," said head coach Namulauulu Alama Ieremia.
"Malu Falaniko is a very talented young player and we look forward to how he’s going to fare against Tonga. We just have to make sure we cover all our bases tactically," he added.
Tusi Pisi and Motu Matuu will sit out the game due to injuries sustained in the last clash against the Flying Fijians.
"This is a do or die for both teams and it’s a very important game for us so were not going to underestimate them at all," said Namulauulu.
The road to the Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan is being paved from these matches.
The top two Pacific Island teams from the Pacific nations will automatically qualify for the World Cup.
Currently Samoa is in third place while Tonga is in second place due to higher point differences. Fiji leads the charge from the Pacific teams.
Samoa must win against Tonga on Saturday to have a better chance of qualifying for the World Cup.
The team is as follows:
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Sakaria Taulafo
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Maatulimanu Leiataua
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Census Johnston
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Jeff Lepa
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Faatiga Lemalu
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Faifili Levave
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Greg Foe
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Alafoti Faosiliva
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Pelefofoga Cowley
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Patrick Faapale
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David Lemi
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Reynold Lee-Lo
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Paul Perez
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Faatoina Autagavaia
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Malu Falaniko
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Seilala Lam
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Sam AIono
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Viliamu Afatia
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Teofilo Paulo
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TJ Ioane
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Danny Tusitala
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D'Angelo Leuila
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Albert Nikoro
Photo: Manu Samoa/Facebook. Ikale Tahi captain Nili Latu (left) with Manu Samoa captain David Lemi